Chinese communities across the world on Sunday rang in the "Year of the Snake" with festive celebrations. The Lunar New Year, also known as spring festival, started on 10 February.

People burn incense to pray for good fortune on the first day of the Chinese Lunar New Year at Wuquanshan temple in LanzhouReuters

Chinese communities across the world on Sunday rang in the "Year of the Snake" with festive celebrations. The Lunar New Year, also known as spring festival, started on 10 February.

The Year of the Snake re-started after a traditional 12-year-cycle. According to Chinese zodiac, the snake - sixth character in the Chinese zodiac - is seen as a symbol of wisdom, wealth and longevity. But it is believed to be less lucky than other characters in the 12-year Chinese Zodiac.

Dong Yilin, a traditional fortune teller believes that the Year of the Snake will be neither lucky nor bad, according to Telegraph.

"2013 is the Year of the Snake. For people who were born under this Chinese zodiac sign we cannot predict a very auspicious year or a year of bad fortune," he said adding, "This sign is perceived as a bit negative."

For the Lunar New Year, people from across the world travelled back home to celebrate with family members. This particular day is the most important of the traditional Chinese holidays. People celebrate the festival with fireworks displays, lantern displays and artistic performances.

The New Year Celebrations took place in China, Singapore, Manila, India and other parts of the world. The festival ends after the 15th day of the first month with the Lantern Festival.